Health Services Organization and Research Ph.D. Program

“Truly exceptional is the best way I can describe my experience as a PhD student in the VCU Department of Health Administration. It was one of the most challenging, invigorating, and exciting educational experiences I could imagine.” Abby Swanson Kazley, PhD (2006), Associate Professor, Medical University of South Carolina. Mission Statement

The Doctoral Program in Health Services Organization and Research (HSOR) prepares individuals for careers in teaching, research, and consulting at the highest level of capability in the field of health care organizational analysis and health services research. Graduates will be competitive for positions at the nation’s top research and teaching institutions, governmental agencies, and health care organizations.

Program Description

We embrace students with diverse educational, work and life experiences who demonstrate a capacity to pursue a rigorous course of doctoral study. Admission is competitive and offered to a limited number of students with clear career goals in health administration and research. A master’s degree in a health- or business-related discipline is recommended.

The program’s didactic course work and comprehensive examinations can be completed in two years, but the program offers a part-time option with expected completion in three years. Required courses in organizational theory and methods are combined with opportunities for you to customize your areas of interest. You will receive dedicated support from a distinguished faculty as you pursue your doctorate at VCU. Faculty members are active highly respected scholars who disseminate their work in prestigious academic and practice journals.

We encourage you to browse through our website for detailed information regarding the Program and the exciting work of our alumni, faculty and students. Please contact the Marketing and Program Coordinator (MSHA and HSOR Ph.D.) Carrie Thornbrugh at clthornbrugh@vcu.edu or 804-828-0719 if we may be of assistance to you.